Requirements to study Law at UJ 2025

Choosing to study law at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) opens up a world of possibilities and unique opportunities. Known for its vibrant academic environment and a faculty rich in knowledge and experience, UJ offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for a successful career in law. Here’s what you need to know about the requirements to study law at UJ, from admission criteria to the unique advantages of pursuing your legal studies at this esteemed institution.

APS Score Requirements to Study Law at UJ

Admission to the Faculty of Law is based on the Admission Points Score (APS), which evaluates a student’s academic achievements. The APS is calculated from the ratings of the six best subjects a student has taken, excluding Life Orientation. Here’s a breakdown of the APS requirements for each program:

BA (Law)

• Minimum APS: 31 with Mathematics or 32 with Mathematical Literacy
• English: 5 (60%+)
• Additional Language: 4 (50%+)*
• Mathematics: 3 (40%+) or Mathematical Literacy: 4 (50%+)

BCom (Law)

• Minimum APS: 31 with Mathematics
• English: 5 (60%+)
• Additional Language: 4 (50%+)
• Mathematics: 4 (50%+), Mathematical Literacy not accepted

LLB

• Minimum APS: 31 with Mathematics or 32 with Mathematical Literacy
• English: 5 (60%+)
• Additional Language: 4 (50%+)*
• Mathematics: 3 (40%+) or Mathematical Literacy: 4 (50%+)

*Note: The requirement for an Additional Language is waived for international students.

It’s important to note that meeting the minimum APS requirements does not guarantee admission due to space constraints.

Subject Requirements

For prospective UJ law students, having a strong foundation in English and Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy is crucial. These subjects are vital for understanding and engaging with the complexities of law. Additionally, a second language proficiency is required, though this requirement may be waived for international students.

Prospective students who are currently in Grade 12 apply with their final Grade 11 results and are finally selected based on their final Grade 12 results. Those who have completed Grade 12 apply with their matriculation certificate. It’s crucial to apply within the application deadlines, as the Faculty has a limited number of spots available each year.

Why Study Law at UJ?

Studying law at UJ comes with a host of benefits, making it a sought-after option for aspiring legal professionals:

• The Faculty of Law at UJ is staffed by a team of highly qualified and motivated lecturers, many of whom hold master’s and doctoral degrees.
• UJ’s Faculty of Law maintains strong connections with leading law firms, providing students with unparalleled networking opportunities.
• The university offers effective mentorship and tutoring systems to support students throughout their studies.
• UJ boasts a world-class law library, providing access to a wealth of legal resources.
• In their final year, LLB students gain practical experience through the Applied Legal Studies module, working with real clients on real-life cases.
• UJ students have the opportunity to compete in moot court competitions, where they have consistently excelled, both locally and internationally.
• The campus is situated in the economic heart of Africa, offering unique insights into the continent’s legal environment.
• UJ’s master’s degree programmes in law blend academic research with practical legal training.
• Students have access to unique international exchange programmes, offering a global perspective on legal studies.

Undergraduate Law Degrees Offered at UJ

UJ offers several undergraduate law degrees, each designed to cater to different interests and career paths in the legal field:

• BA (Law)
• BCom (Law)
• LLB

After completing a BA (Law) or BCom (Law) degree, students have the option to pursue an honours degree in a specialized discipline other than law. Following an LLB degree, graduates can enroll for a specialized Master’s degree in Law, provided they meet the selection and admission criteria.

Choosing to study law at UJ not only promises an enriching academic experience but also a pathway to a rewarding career in the legal field. With its comprehensive programs, practical training opportunities, and supportive academic environment, UJ stands out as a premier destination for legal education in Africa.

FAQs

What APS score is required for law at UJ?

To study law at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), the minimum APS (Admission Point Score) required is 31 with Mathematics or 32 with Mathematical Literacy. Additional requirements include an English score of 5 (60%), an Additional Language score of 4 (50%), a Mathematics score of 3 (40%), and Mathematical Literacy score of 4 (50%). These criteria ensure that students are well-prepared for the rigors of a law program, which demands strong analytical and language skills.

Does UJ offer certificates in law?

Yes, UJ offers a variety of non-formal certificate programs within its Faculty of Law. These programs are designed to provide specialized knowledge in specific areas of law and governance. Here’s a breakdown of the certificates available:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Compliance: This 2-year program includes specialized modules such as Money Laundering Control, Compliance Management, Board Governance, and Basic Interpretation of Theory. Each module is a standalone course, providing flexibility in learning and specialization.
• Certificate Programs (6 months each):
• Certificate in Money Laundering Control
• Certificate in Compliance Management
• Certificate in Board Governance
• Certificate in Basic Interpretation of Theory: Offered as an exit module of the PGD in Compliance.
• Certificate in Legislative Drafting: Notably, this was not presented in 2021.
• Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice and Forensic Investigations (1 year): This program offers foundational insights into criminal justice processes and forensic methodologies.
• Advanced Certificate in Labour Law (1 year): This is offered based on demand and provides advanced legal knowledge in the field of labour law.

These certificate programs at UJ are structured to cater to a variety of professional needs and interests, providing valuable qualifications that enhance career opportunities in the legal field.

Yes, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) offers a variety of diplomas in law, catering to different interests and career aspirations in the legal field. Here’s a brief overview:

• Postgraduate Diploma in International Taxation (1 year): Focuses on international taxation principles and policies.
• Postgraduate Diploma in Tax Law (2 years): Provides in-depth knowledge in national and international tax law.
• Postgraduate Diploma in Drafting and Interpretation of Contracts (1 year): Specializes in the drafting and interpretation of legal contracts.
• National Diploma in Law (Paralegal Studies) (3 years): Prepares students for paralegal work in various legal environments.
• Paralegal Bridging Programme (2 days): A short course designed to bridge knowledge gaps for paralegals.
• Postgraduate Diploma in Labour Law (1 year): Offers specialized knowledge in labour law suitable for practitioners in human resources and legal counseling.

These programs reflect UJ’s commitment to providing comprehensive legal education that meets both academic and professional needs.

Law modules at UJ

The law modules offered at UJ are comprehensive and cover a broad spectrum of legal disciplines. Here’s a list of some key modules:

• Administrative Law
• Applied Legal Studies
• Bill of Rights/Human Rights
• Business Enterprise Law
• Capita Selecta: Mercantile Law (Intellectual Property Law)
• Capita Selecta: Private Law A
• Constitutional Law
• Criminal Law
• Cyber Law
• Indigenous Law
• International Law
• International Trade Law
• Interpretation Theory/Interpretation of Statutes
• Introduction to Legal Studies
• Jurisprudence
• Labour Law
• Law of Civil Procedure
• Law of Contract
• Law of Criminal Procedure
• Law of Delict
• Law of Evidence and Litigation Techniques
• Law of Insolvency
• Law of Negotiable Instruments and Banking Law
• Law of Persons and the Family
• Law of Property
• Law of Succession
• Legal Skills
• Private International Law
• Social Security Law
• Tax Law
• Research Methodology

These modules are designed to provide a well-rounded education in law, ensuring that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills applicable in various legal professions.

How many years is LLB at UJ?

The LLB degree at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) typically requires a minimum period of study of four years. However, this duration can be reduced to two years if a student has already completed a BCom (Law) or BA (Law) degree. This accelerated pathway is possible because some of the modules completed during the BCom (Law) or BA (Law) degrees are recognized and credited towards the LLB degree requirements. This arrangement allows students who have already gained substantial foundational knowledge in law to fast-track their professional legal studies.